Federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security conducted searches in Columbia University dormitories following the arrest of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil. The controversial action lends weight to the Trump administration’s promised crackdown on suspected Hamas supporters.
At a glance:
• DHS agents searched two Columbia University student residences under warrants signed by a federal magistrate judge
• No arrests were made or items removed during the searches, which are connected to Mahmoud Khalil’s recent arrest
• Khalil, a Palestinian permanent U.S. resident and recent Columbia graduate, is being held in Louisiana without charges
• The Trump administration claims Khalil distributed pro-Hamas propaganda and poses a national security threat
• Columbia University President Katrina Armstrong described herself as “heartbroken” but acknowledged the university’s obligation to comply with the law
Trump Administration Takes Action Against Campus Extremism
The Department of Homeland Security’s search of two Columbia University dormitories marks a significant escalation in the federal government’s approach to handling pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses. Federal agents executed the searches under legally-approved warrants signed by a federal magistrate judge.
The searches follow the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent figure in Columbia’s pro-Palestinian protests and a recent graduate who is now in ICE custody. Khalil, a permanent U.S. resident who was raised in Syria, is facing deportation proceedings due to alleged ties to Hamas and distribution of pro-Hamas content.
The White House has defended the arrest, pointing specifically to Khalil’s circulation of propaganda supporting the terrorist organization. This action aligns with President Trump’s broader efforts to root out extremism and protect Jewish students on college campuses across the nation. Protests erupted in 2023 following the Hamas October 7 attack on Israel, leaving many Jewish students feeling unsafe on campus.
Columbia Leadership Responds to Federal Intervention
Columbia University’s Interim President Katrina Armstrong expressed profound distress over the federal intervention in a message to the university community. “I am writing heartbroken to inform you that we had federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in two University residences tonight,” Armstrong wrote.
Despite her emotional response, Armstrong acknowledged the university’s legal obligations in the matter. “The University is obligated to comply with the law. Our University Public Safety was present at all times,” she confirmed.
Columbia has faced serious consequences for its handling of pro-Palestinian protests, with the Trump administration pulling $400 million in government grants and contracts. The funding was suspended due to the university’s alleged failure to protect Jewish students from harassment during demonstrations that included support for the Hamas attack.
Legal Battle Brewing Over Activist’s Detention
Khalil’s attorney, Baher Azmy, has vigorously disputed the government’s allegations, calling them “false and preposterous.” His legal team argues that Khalil is being targeted solely for his advocacy and protected speech activities, not for any genuine security threat.
The case has already sparked widespread protest, with at least 98 arrests made during a demonstration at Trump Tower in New York City demanding Khalil’s release. Meanwhile, Columbia University has taken disciplinary action against students involved in pro-Palestinian protests, including expulsions, suspensions, and temporary revocation of degrees.
Khalil remains in detention in Louisiana, awaiting an appearance before an immigration judge. The Trump administration has made it clear that his case is viewed as a matter of national security rather than a free speech issue.
